Resolve to Be Ready: Preparing Now Will Pay Dividends in Future

ALBANY, NY (12/30/2010)(readMedia)-- Last weekend's Nor'easter which dumped more than 20 inches of snow in southeastern sections of New York State served as a stark reminder for New Yorkers on why they need to be prepared. And not just for snow storms. Over the course of this year, many New Yorkers coped with unexpected flooding and power outages. Are you and your family ready for similar emergencies? If not, Resolve to be Ready now!

"While State agencies have done much to enhance their readiness and response capabilities, every New Yorker has a responsibility to ensure that they and their families are prepared in the event of an emergency, whether it's a a snow storm, flood, fire, power outage or terrorist act," said John R. Gibb, Acting Commissioner of the New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services. "People need to know what to do in the event of an emergency, have emergency supplies on hand, and know where they will get information from local authorities. If you haven't done so yet, resolve to be ready in 2011."

As part of the yearly tradition of making resolutions for a New Year, DHSES is encouraging citizens across New York State to resolve to be ready, by taking proper precautions and making preparations now for any type of disaster that could occur across the state. Everyone can Resolve to be Ready by:

Creating a Family Emergency Plan

Families should be prepared for all hazards that affect their area and themselves. Follow these basic steps to develop a family disaster plan:

• Learn your community's warning signals.

• Meet with your family to create a plan. Pick two places to meet: a spot outside your home for an emergency such as fire, and a place away from your neighborhood in case you cannot return home (a real possibility during the day when adults are at work and children are at school). Choose an out-of-area friend as your family check-in contact for everyone to call if the family becomes separated.

• Implement your plan. Post emergency telephone numbers by the phones. Install safety features in your house such as smoke and carbon monoxide alarms and fire extinguishers. Inspect your home for potential hazards and correct them. Have your family learn basic safety and first aid measures. Make sure everyone knows how and when to call 9-1-1 or your local emergency medical services phone number. Have disaster supplies on hand.

• No plan is worthwhile unless you practice it. Establish a well-planned escape route with your family. Hold practice drills until family members are thoroughly familiar with the plan.

Stocking Up on Emergency Supplies

The following supplies can help you and your family in the event a winter storm, power outage or flood prevents you from leaving your home:

• Flashlights and extra batteries

• Battery-operated radio and extra batteries

• Emergency non-perishable foods that do not require refrigeration

• Non-electric can opener

• Bottled water

• One-week supply of essential medicines

• Extra blankets and sleeping bags

• First aid kit and manual

• Fire extinguisher

• Emergency heating equipment, used properly

Being Aware

Know what's going on around you. Monitor local radio and television broadcasts for official information from your local authorities. One of the best ways to get emergency information is by subscribing NY-ALERT, the State's free alert and notification system. Visit www.nyalert.gov.

Getting Involved

Learn more about the potential emergencies that could happen where you live and the appropriate way to respond to them. In addition, learn about the emergency plans that have been established in your area by your state and local government. Join a local Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) and volunteer to assist your community during a disaster.

"Safety is something everyone should be thinking of, first and foremost," Gibb said. "By following these easy, common-sense steps, everyone can be better prepared for any type of emergency in the future."

For more information, please visit:

New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services: www.dhses.ny.gov

New York Aware Prepare: www.nyprepare.gov/

NY-ALERT: www.nyalert.gov/

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